More Tips For U.S.
Citizens Living In Canada
Submitted

There have been many changes in recent years in regards to the enforcement of tax compliance for US Citizens residing abroad. Throughout the past several months I have had the opportunity to meet with several individuals that are quite concerned with what is happening on the other side of the border. Recently, I have been holding various seminars throughout southern Alberta on this very topic. It has been an emotional roller coaster for many of you that are impacted by these laws.

Are my Investments Appropriate?
I thought I would take the time to clear up any confusion with regard to appropriate investments. If you are a US Citizen living in Canada, there are certain investments that can pose problems on the US tax side. Some of those investment products/accounts are: Mutual Funds, Life Insurance, Tax-Free Savings Accounts, and Registered Education Savings Plans, among others. Many of these rules are new as of 2010. It is important to review your investments regularly with an advisor that understands the impact certain investments can have from a US tax standpoint.

Consultation Meeting With
Jim Hillyer
Submitted by: Dennis Barnes

Saturday morning from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., the Tanner Senior Center in Cardston was the first stop on the road of four Saturday mornings of Pre-Budget Consultations by Lethbridge MP, Jim Hillyer. A small audience attended to hear Hillyer explain the next phase of Canada's Economic Action Plan - A Low Tax Plan for Jobs and Growth. According to The Plan, the Government will build on the success of the stimulus plan. As the private sector moves ahead as the engine of growth and job creation, the Government will return its focus toward sustainable actions that create the right conditions for long term economic prosperity.

Hillyer said, “Canada is in a better financial situation that any of the G20 countries in the world." He explained that because of the better laws governing the Canadian banks, our economy has remained strong. The Plan is to, "invest in the key drivers of economic growth-innovation, investment, education and training; and will seek to foster an environment in which all Canadians contribute to, and benefit from, a stronger economy.